Broadband RFP.pdf

DATE: 07/15/2024

MURRAY COUNTY GOVERNMENT

TO:

SUBJECT:

(Telecommunications Consulting Firms)

TELECOMMUNICATION CONSULTING/DESIGN SERVICES:

Broadband Community Enhancement Project

You are invited to submit statements of qualifications to provide comprehensive telecommunication consulting and design services for Murray County, Georgia. Selection of the Telecommunications Consulting Design Professional will be a multi-step process.

• This RFPQ seeks to identify potential providers of the above-mentioned services. Some firms that respond to this RFPQ, who are determined by Murray County Government to be especially qualified, may be deemed eligible and may be invited to interview and offer proposals for these services. All respondents to this RFPQ are subject to instructions communicated in this document and cautioned to completely review the entire RFPQ and follow instructions carefully.

Inquiries regarding qualifications and proposals and any technical questions may be directed to Murray County Government Broadband Committee at email: broadband@murraycountyga.gov

Attached hereto are the Request for Proposals/Qualifications (RFPQ) instruction documents. The written requirements contained in this RFPQ shall not be changed or superseded except by written addendum from Murray County Government Broadband Committee. Failure to comply with the written requirements for this proposal may result in rejection of the proposal by Murray County Government.

Tina Davis Highlight

Page | 2

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION TITLE

SECTION I REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS/ PROPOSALS OVERVIEW AND PROCEDURES

SECTION II REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS

SECTION III REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS

SECTION IV SCOPE OF SERVICES

SECTION V SELECTION PROCESS AND EVALUATION CRITERIA

SECTION VI MANDATORY PROPOSAL FORMS

SECTION VII OPTIONAL FORMS

SECTION VIII DOCUMENTS CHECKLIST

ATTACHMENT A: WHAT YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS TO KNOW ABOUT GEORGIA’S E-VERIFY

REQUIREMENTS

Page | 3

MURRAY COUNTY GOVERNMENT

STEP 1 - REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS (RFPQ)

and

STEP 2 - REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFPQ)

TELECOMMUNICATIONS CONSULTING SERVICES

MURRAY COUNTY, GEORGIA

SECTION I

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS/PROPOSALS OVERVIEW AND

PROCEDURES

A. INTRODUCTION

PURPOSE

The Sole Commissioner, County Manager, and Information Technology Department of Murray County Government desires to solicit statements of qualifications and competitive proposals from responsible vendors to provide professional services for the comprehensive analysis, conceptual system design, design, construction, implementation, and potential operation and maintenance of a county-wide broadband network in Murray County, Georgia. The proposing firms will provide services per the scope of services as indicated in Section IV of this Request for Proposals (RFPQ).

B. RFQP TIMETABLE

The following Schedule of Events represents the anticipated schedule that will be followed. All times indicated are prevailing times in Murray County, Georgia. Murray County Government reserves the right to adjust the schedule as necessary.

RFQP Estimated Timeline Proposal Documents Available: July 17, 2024 Pre-Proposal Conference (Non-Mandatory): July 24, 2024 @ 2:00 P.M. EST via ZOOM Teleconference @ the following link:

https://us05web.zoom.us/j/89972433651?pwd=7Utol3b0o7bJpRLCrdGWV7SBlWWfh0.1 Meeting ID (access code): 899 7243 3651 Meeting password: xGeM2G Deadline for Submission of Questions: August 14, 2024 (5:00 PM EST) Deadline for Receipt of Proposals: August 19, 2024 (9:00 AM EST) Sealed Bid Opening: August 19, 2024 (9:00 AM EST)

Anticipated Evaluation Committee completed evaluation, post results, and issues notification to finalist firms:

September 6, 2024

C. CONTACT PERSON(S)

The contact person for this RFPQ is Murray County Government Broadband Committee at broadband@murraycountyga.gov. Explanation(s) desired by the offeror(s) regarding the meaning or interpretation of this RFPQ must be requested from the contact person, in writing via e-mail at jchoate@murraycountyga.gov , tparker@murraycountyga.gov , tdavis@murraycountyga.gov https://accgov.webex.com/accgov/j.php?MTID=maeb284b124820f8db02c79dd0a289465 mailto:derek.doster@accgov.com.

Tina Davis Highlight

Tina Davis Highlight

Page | 4

From the time of advertisement of this solicitation until a final award is made to a successful respondent and such award is announced, offerors are permitted to contact only the contact persons stated above to clarify any part of this RFPQ. Any such unauthorized contact shall not be used as a basis for responding to this RFPQ and may result in the rejection of the offeror's submittal.

D. MINIMUM PROPOSAL ACCEPTANCE PERIOD

Proposals shall be valid and may not be withdrawn for a period of 90 days from the date specified for receipt of proposals.

E. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION/ADDENDA

Murray County Government will issue responses to inquiries and any other corrections or amendments it deems necessary in written addenda issued prior to the proposal due date. Offerors should not rely on any representations, statements, or explanations other than those made in this RFPQ or in any addendum to this RFPQ. Where there appears to be a conflict between the RFPQ and any addenda issued, the last addendum issued will prevail.

Request for additional information or clarifications must be made in writing no later than the date specified in the RFPQ Timetable. The request must contain the offeror's name, address, phone number, and email address.

Offerors must acknowledge any issued addenda. Proposals which fail to acknowledge the offeror’s receipt of any addendum may result in the rejection of the proposal if the addendum contained information which substantively changed the Owner’s requirements Offerors who obtain this Request for Qualifications and Proposal from Georgia Procurement Registry or www.murraycountyga.org from other than Murray County Government are advised to re-visit the above websites to obtain any addenda which may be issued prior to the proposal closing date. Murray County Government assumes no responsibility for Offerors’ failure to acknowledge any addenda issued.

F. LATE PROPOSALS, WITHDRAWALS, MODIFICATIONS AND REJECTIONS

Proposals shall not be modified, withdrawn, or canceled by the offeror for a period of ninety (90) days following the time and date designated for the receipt of proposals, and each offeror so agrees in submitting his proposal. Negligence on the part of the Offeror in the preparation of his proposal shall not be grounds for the modification or withdrawal of a proposal after the time set for proposal closing.

Proposals received after the proposal due date and time are late and will not be considered. Modifications received after the proposal due date are also late and will not be considered

G. PROPOSAL CLOSING

Proposal schedule prices will be opened and read aloud at a scheduled public meeting. A list of names of firms providing proposals may be obtained from Georgia Procurement Registry or via email request to broadband@murraycountyga.gov After the proposal due date and time stated herein. A tabulation of prices may be obtained upon award.

H. NON-COLLUSION AFFIDAVIT

By submitting a proposal, the offeror represents and warrants that such proposal is genuine and not sham or collusive or made in the interest or on behalf of any person not therein named and that the offeror has not directly or indirectly induced or solicited any other offeror to put in a sham proposal, or any other person, firm or corporation to refrain from proposing and that the offeror has not in any manner sought by collusion to secure to that offeror any advantage over any other offeror.

mailto:derek.doster@accgov.com.

http://www.athensclarkecounty.com/Bids.aspx)or mailto:accbids@accgov.com

Page | 5

By submitting a proposal, the offeror represents and warrants that no official or employee of Murray County Government has, in any manner, an interest, directly or indirectly in the proposal or in the contract which may be made under it, or in any expected profits to arise therefrom.

I. GEORGIA SECURITY AND IMMIGRATION COMPLIANCE ACT AFFIDAVIT

By submitting a proposal and executing the attached Affidavits, the offeror verifies its compliance with O.C.G.A. §13-10-91. The offeror further agrees to maintain records of such compliance and shall provide a copy of each such verification to Murray County Government, at the time the subcontractor(s) is retained to perform such services.

II. COST INCURRED BY OFFERORS

All expenses involved with the preparation and submission of proposals to Murray County Government, or any work performed in connection therewith shall be borne by the offeror(s). No payment will be made for any responses received or for any other effort required of or made by the offeror(s) prior to the commencement of work as defined by a contract approved by the governing body of Murray County Government.

III. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY POLICY STATEMENT

It is the policy of Murray County Government that no person or business shall be excluded from participation, denied the benefits of, or otherwise discriminated against in relation to the award and performance of any contract or subcontract on the grounds of race, color, creed, national origin, age, or sex.

IV. HOLD HARMLESS AND INDEMNIFICATION

The Offeror agrees, insofar as it legally may, to indemnify and hold harmless Murray County Government, its officers, employees and agents from and against all loss, costs, expenses, including attorneys' fees, claims, suits and judgments, whatsoever in connection with injury to or death of any person or persons or loss of or damage to property resulting from any and all operations performed by Offeror, its officers, employees, and agents under any of the terms of this contract.

V. AWARD OF CONTRACT

This is a past performance/technical/price trade-off source selection in which competing offeror’s past and present performance history and technical ability will be evaluated on a basis approximately along with price. Award will be made to the responsible offeror whose proposal represents the best value after evaluation in accordance with the factors listed in Section IV herein. Murray County Government may reject any or all proposals if such action is in Murray County Government’s interest.

VI. QUALIFICATION OF OFFERORS

Murray County Government may make such reasonable investigations as deemed proper and necessary to determine the ability of the offeror to perform the work and the offeror shall furnish to Murray County Government all such information and data for this purpose as may be requested. Murray County Government reserves the right to reject any proposal if the evidence submitted by, or investigations of, such offeror fails to satisfy Murray County Government that such offeror is properly qualified to carry out the obligations of the contract and to complete the work contemplated therein. Proposals from any offeror that is in default on the payment of any taxes, license fees, or other monies due to Murray County will not be accepted.

Page | 6

O. ALTERNATE PROPOSALS

Alternate proposals or proposals that deviate from the requirements of this solicitation will not be considered. Offerors shall not insert in their proposal any written statement which will have the effect of making any material change or changes in the Scope of Services or in any contract between the parties covering subject matter thereof.

P. OPEN RECORDS

In accordance with OCGA Section 50-18-72(a)(34) Any trade secrets obtained from a person or business entity that are required by law, regulation, bid, or request for proposal to be submitted to an agency. An entity submitting records containing trade secrets that wishes to keep such records confidential under this paragraph shall submit and attach to the records an affidavit affirmatively declaring that specific information in the records constitute trade secrets pursuant to Article 27 of Chapter 1 of Title 10. If such entity attaches such an affidavit, before producing such records in response to a request under this article, the agency shall notify the entity of its intention to produce such records as set forth in this paragraph. If the agency makes a determination that the specifically identified information does not in fact constitute a trade secret, it shall notify the entity submitting the affidavit of its intent to disclose the information within ten days unless prohibited from doing so by an appropriate court order. In the event the entity wishes to prevent disclosure of the requested records, the entity may file an action in superior court to obtain an order that the requested records are trade secrets exempt from disclosure. The entity filing such action shall serve the requestor with a copy of its court filing. If the agency makes a determination that the specifically identified information does constitute a trade secret, the agency shall withhold the records, and the requester may file an action in superior court to obtain an order that the requested records are not trade secrets and are subject to disclosure.

Page | 7

SECTION II

STEP 1 - REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS (RFPQ) SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS

ALL QUALIFICATIONS RECEIVED WILL BECOME A PART OF THE OFFICIAL CONTRACT FILE

AND MAY BE SUBJECT TO DISCLOSURE.

A complete signed Statement of Qualifications must include the documents listed below:

PROPOSAL FORMAT: Offerors are expected to examine the RFPQ and all instructions in its entirety.

Failure to do so will be at the offeror’s risk. Each offeror shall furnish the information required by the solicitation.

All proposals received will become a part of the official contract file and may be subject to disclosure.

PROPOSAL FORMAT: All proposals should include the information outlined below and in the following order:

1. Cover Letter: A brief cover letter of introduction and interest.

2. Table of Contents: Including all sections and subsections.

3. Business Information:

a. State the full name and address of your organization and the branch office or subordinate element that will perform the services described in this proposal. Include a telephone number, the point of contact and official signature of an authorized company representative. Indicate whether you operate as a single proprietorship, partnership, or corporation. Include the state(s) in which you are incorporated and/or licensed to operate. If the firm has multiple offices, the qualification statement shall include information about the parent company and branch office separately. Identify office from which Project will be managed and this office’s proximity to Murray County, Georgia. If applicable, indicate the year the local office was established and the number of persons staffing that office and their disciplines.

b. Briefly describe the history and growth of your firm(s). Provide general information about the firm’s personnel resources, including disciplines and numbers of employees and locations and staffing of offices.

c. Provide any non-discrimination and equal employment opportunities policies of the firm and evidence of efforts or success in W/MBE-DBE inclusion. Indicate such inclusion levels intended for this Project.

4. Financial Information and Documentation: Provide relevant information regarding organizational stability and strength. Documentation may include:

a. A statement of organizational structure (e.g., sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, joint venture, etc.), information regarding the make-up of that structure (e.g., owner, partners, board of directors joint venture partners, etc.), a listing of financial references and main banking references.

b. List the firm’s annual revenue for the past 2 years. List the parent office and the local offices revenues separately, if applicable.

c. Provide the name of the insurance carrier, types of coverage and deductible amounts per claim.

d. Has the firm been involved in any litigation in the past five (5) years? Describe your experience with litigation with Owners, Architects, and/or Contractors. List any active or pending litigation and explain. List any claims against your firm or against Owners where your firm is named.

e. Failure to Complete Prior Projects - disclose whether the Offeror (or any general partner or joint venture of the Offeror) has ever failed to complete a similar project. If so, list the date of commencement of the project and the entity for which the project was to be performed, and explain why the project was not completed.

f. Disclose information and provide an explanation regarding any contracts involving the offeror or joint venture firm within the last three years which exceeded initial program or project budget, exceeded initial schedule, and any contract penalties or damages assessed.

g. Provide a statement whether Offeror has or has not been involved in litigation as a plaintiff against an Owner, Design Firm or Construction Contract Administration Firm, or served the Owner with a claim for additional compensation prepared by an attorney or a claims consultant, excluding routine change order requests, in the past five years. If Offeror has, explain. List any lawsuits or administrative actions to which the Offeror is currently a party or has been a party (either as a plaintiff or defendant) during the past ten years. For each suit, list all parties and indicate whether any party was a bonding company, insurance company, an Owner, or other. Identify the project giving rise to the suit or administrative action; explain the basis of the claim, and whether a settlement was reached or a judgment entered into for or against the Offeror, or the Offeror’s bonding company or Insurance Company.

h. Provide a statement that the Offeror, as well as all of its affiliated companies, is not involved in any dispute, formal claim, or litigation with the Owner, nor any authority or organization with which the Owner has a vested interest. If this is not the case, please explain.

5. Qualifications and Experience:

a. Include an organization chart and summary resumes of key personnel proposed for the project, including designations of the Principal in Charge, Lead Designer, Project Architect, Project Manager, the person responsible for all proposed communications with Murray County Government's Broadband Committee, and all proposed sub-consultants and a description of their roles. Provide information on level of commitment for proposed senior personnel and key members of the team. Supply current and projected workloads of key personnel.

b. Provide experience of key resources on relevant projects of the firm including professional qualifications and description of involvement/experience for proposed project staff. This should include the degree of apparent relevant competencies of the principal professional(s) and lead staff relative to the project and services required, and evidence of competence.

c. Provide information on the firm’s experience and ability in delivering effective telecommunication design services for projects similar in complexity, size, scope, and function to the Project. Describe three (3) projects which demonstrate the firm’s capabilities to provide services for the Project. For each project, the following information should be provided:

i. Client entity name, project location and dates during which services were performed.

ii. Clear description of overall project and services performed by your firm. If your firm has more than one office, indicate which office was responsible for each of the example projects.

iii. Construction delivery method of the project.

iv. Exact duration of project services provided by your firm, and overall program, project budget and final project cost.

v. Current client contact information including contact names, email addresses and telephone numbers.

vi. Contractor contact information including contact names, email addresses and telephone numbers.

vii. Other applicable project partner contact information.

viii. Specify who from the key personnel and consultants, if any, being proposed

Page | 8

Page | 9 project were involved and their role, in both the design and construction phases.

ix. Include any letters of reference/recommendation about the firm’s performance on the project.

d. Provide a statement on the firm’s experience and qualifications in a leadership role over multiple providers and phases of design and construction for similar projects. Include any oversight of projects of extreme complexity, including experience in providing leadership in projects that are highly complex. Describe innovations that the firm might have introduced or employed to increase the project’s adherence to technical standards.

e. Demonstrate an understanding of and experience with the financial aspects of broadband design, construction, maintenance and operation, including accurate cost estimating and modeling.

6. Design Plan & Understanding of the Project:

a. Provide a statement of your definition of your firm’s proposed overall role in this project, your anticipated level of management responsibility and accountability for project concerns.

Describe your process for efficiently resolving issues and maintaining the project commitments while working collaboratively with Murray County Government, end users and other stakeholders as applicable.

b. Describe systems and procedures your firm uses to manage both the design schedule and cost.

c. Provide description of the firm’s approach to project documentation.

d. Explain your process for construction administration.

e. Provide detailed procedures for routine solving of complex project issues without compromising your team commitments.

f. Provide your proposed methods and plans of communication.

g. Provide your proposed timeline covering the scope of design and a detailed work plan for the project, based on the firm’s understanding of the project requirements from provided scope or similar projects. Each milestone must include the detailed steps describing the tasks to be done.

Describe alternatives that may be explored to shorten the schedule.

h. Provide concise description of the five (5) most significant design challenges related to the Project as described in this RFPQ, and the proposed approach and/or strategy for addressing such challenges.

i. Based on the firm’s understanding of the project, identify any additional services that might be required for a successful program. Provide your detailed plan for applying any services not specifically mentioned herein.

j. Provide anticipated proposed public engagement strategy.

7. Suitability: Provide any information that may serve to differentiate your firm from other firms in suitability for the project, including, but not limited to:

a. Furnish evidence of the firm’s fit to the project and/or needs of Murray County Government, any special or unique qualifications for the Project, or unique approaches to this Project.

b. Provide firm’s proficiency in design of security standards and approaches in all aspects of final design of large scale broadband networks

c. Provide a statement on the firm’s quality control/quality assurance procedures for aspects of services.

d. Describe any special or enhanced capabilities offered by the firm that may be particularly suitable for this project.

e. Describe the firm’s history and methodologies of addressing public safety, environmental, or other related concerns in its field.

f. Describe other services or relevant scopes or techniques offered by the firm which might be suitable for this project.

Page | 10

8. Other Relevant Information: Include any other relevant information concerning the project in this section.

Page | 11

SUBMITTAL FORMAT: ALL Statements of Qualification copies must be submitted in a sealed envelope or container with the OUTERMOST container stating the company name, address, telephone number, and TITLE (RFQP: T e l e c o m m u n i c a t i o n C o n s u l t i n g / D e s i g n S e r v i c e s ).

One (1) USB Flash drive with a copy of the Statements of Qualification package

Offerors are responsible for informing any commercial delivery service, if used, of all delivery requirements and for ensuring that the required address information appears on the outer wrapper or envelope used by such service.

No responsibility shall attach to Murray County Governement for the premature opening of a proposal not properly addressed and identified, and/or delivered to the proper or Improper address. Proposals via facsimile will NOT be considered.

Murray County Government reserves the right to reject any and all proposals, to waive any technicalities or irregularities, and to award the contract based on the highest and best interest of Murray County Government.

ALL DOCUMENTS SUBMITTED ON USB FLASH DRIVE

MUST BE IN A SINGLE PDF FILE

mailto:purchasing@accgov.com

Page | 12

SECTION III

STEP 2 - REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFPQ) SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS

ALL PROPOSALS RECEIVED WILL BECOME A PART OF THE OFFICIAL CONTRACT FILE AND

MAY BE SUBJECT TO DISCLOSURE.

A complete signed proposal must include the documents listed below:

PROPOSAL FORMAT: Offerors are expected to examine the specifications, price schedule, and all instructions. Failure to do so will be at the offeror’s risk. Each offeror shall furnish the information required by the solicitation. The proposal and price schedule must be signed by an officer of the company, who is legally authorized to enter into a contractual relationship in the name of the offeror.

All proposals received will become a part of the official contract file and may be subject to disclosure.

PROPOSAL FORMAT: All proposals should include the information outlined below and in the following order:

All vendors shall provide Proposals as outlined in Step 2 as a separate document from the RFPQ (Step 1).

1. Cover Letter: A brief cover letter of introduction and interest.

2. Table of Contents: Including all sections and subsections.

3. Fee Proposal: All costs are to be provided within the template attached as ATTACHMENT D.

4. Other Relevant Information: Include any other relevant information concerning the project in this section.

5. Insurance Required for Vendors(Contractor)

1. Before commencing work under the contract, the Contractor shall provide to Murray County Government, Attn: IT Director, a Certificate of Insurance evidencing the required kinds and amounts of insurance. The contractor shall procure at his own expense the following insurance coverage as listed below:

2. General Liability Insurance:

a. Taken out in the name of the Contractor. A current certificate of insurance shall be provided from the agent, listing Murray County Government as an additional insured and certificate holder. Certificate of insurance shall reference the project and name Murray County Government as additional insured as evidencing this requirement. We require 30 days prior notice of cancellation to be shown on the certificate.

b. The insurance company will only be accepted if it is in good standing within the state of Georgia through the Insurance Commissioner’s office. It must also be rated A or better with AM Best Company.

c. The required limits are one million per occurrence, two million aggregate, fifty thousand fire damage, five thousand medical expenses, one million products completed operations, one million personal & advertising injury or greater. Coverage should be on a per occurrence basis.

3. Worker’s Compensation Insurance:

a. Workmen’s Compensation Insurance covering all employees of the Contractor and any uninsured sub-contractors is required. A current certificate of insurance shall be provided from the agent, listing Murray County Government as an additional insured and certificate holder. We require 30 days prior notice of cancellation to be shown on the certificate.

Page | 13

b. The insurance company will only be accepted if it is in good standing within the state of Georgia through the Insurance Commissioner’s office. It must also be rated A or better with AM Best Company.

c. The required limits are statutory benefits and employers liability of one million each accident, one million each employee, one million policy limit or greater.

4. Automobile Liability Insurance:

a. Auto Liability Insurance covering all vehicles of the Contractor and any borrowed or leased vehicles is required. A current certificate of insurance shall be provided from the agent, listing Murray County Government as an additional insured and certificate holder. We require 30 days prior notice of cancellation to be shown on the certificate.

b. The insurance company will only be accepted if it is in good standing within the state of Georgia through the Insurance Commissioner’s office. It must also be rated A or better with AM Best Company.

c. The required limits are one million combined single limit on scheduled autos and hired and non-owned auto coverage or greater.

5. Excess Liability:

a. Taken out in the name of the Contractor. A current certificate of insurance shall be provided from the agent, listing Murray County Government as an additional insured and certificate holder. We require 30 days prior notice of cancellation to be shown on the certificate.

b. The insurance company will only be accepted if it is in good standing within the state of Georgia through the Insurance Commissioner’s office. It must also be rated A or better with AM Best Company.

c. The required coverage limit is one million on a per occurrence basis. Murray County Government reserves the right to request a higher limit if the completed job amount will exceed this amount.

6. Sub-Contractor’s General Liability and Auto Insurance:

a. The Contractor shall require each of his sub-contractors to procure and to maintain during the life of his sub-contract, sub-contractor’s general liability and auto insurance of the type and amount specified previously.

7. Professional Liability Insurance:

a. Murray County Government will coordinate professional liability requirements appropriate with final design services agreed upon.

Page | 14

SUBMITTAL FORMAT: ALL proposal copies must be submitted in a sealed envelope or container with the OUTERMOST container stating the company name, address, telephone number, the RFPQ TITLE

(TELECOMMUNICATIONS CONSULTING SERVICES).

One (1) USB Flash drive with a copy of the Proposal WITH Fee Proposal (Must be clearly marked inside the sealed envelope)

Offerors are responsible for informing any commercial delivery service, if used, of all delivery requirements and for ensuring that the required address information appears on the outer wrapper or envelope used by such service.

No responsibility shall attach to the Murray County Government for the premature opening of a proposal not properly addressed and identified, and/or delivered to the proper or Improper address. Proposals via facsimile will NOT be considered.

Murray County Government reserves the right to reject any and all proposals, to waive any technicalities or irregularities, and to award the contract based on the highest and best interest of Murray County Government.

ALL DOCUMENTS SUBMITTED ON USB FLASH DRIVE

MUST BE IN A SINGLE PDF FILE

Page | 15

SECTION IV – SCOPE OF SERVICES

The proposing firm shall provide all personnel, equipment, tools, materials, supervision, and other items and services necessary to provide the scope of services outlined below.

A. INTRODUCTION AND PURPOSE

Murray County Government is a Sole Commissioner form of government located in the northwest section of the state of Georgia and is approximately ninety (90) miles north of Atlanta, Georgia. Murray County, Georgia was formed in 1832 as a political subdivision of the State of Georgia. Murray County Government serves an area population of approximately 40,000 with annual growth projected at 1% per year. Murray County Government provides a multitude of local and state-funded services, which includes, but is not limited to, Public Safety, Utility, Courts, Corrections, Tax and Fire Services. Murray County Government employs approximately 400 people.

This Project is one of a set of capital improvement projects included in a Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) which was approved by voters on November 7, 2023 and American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). The Broadband Connectivity Enhancement Project was approved per the following Project Statement:

This project will provide funding to assist with the process of implementing and providing for the enhancement of broadband connectivity throughout Murray County, Georgia. Depending upon costs and funding availability, and to the extent allowed by law, this project may include, but not be limited to, the following: providing broadband connectivity for governmental use; construction of a high speed wireless network loop around the county to provide high speed broadband access to the Internet for citizens of incorporated and unincorporated areas of Murray County; land acquisition, design, construction, and other related costs for building out the infrastructure and incorporating it into the Murray County Government workflow; providing Wi-Fi connectivity within incorporated and unincorporated areas and targeted advertisements for business development; connectivity enhancements to increase phone and/or internet service geographically in Murray County; and partnerships with local, regional, state, federal, and/or private entities. Additionally, to the extent allowed by law, funds may be used as matching funds for leveraging grant opportunities.

Per the Project Statement, this project has a lot of avenues to explore. Services being requested in this Request for Proposals involve design services to create a municipal broadband network to link all incorporated and unincorporated facilities that has enough capacity address the following:

• Improved and more efficient government functions o Increase faster internet access at governmental buildings, reducing monthly service costs and improved business function o Expand opportunities for public safety camera systems o Expand opportunities for real time traffic management solutions

• Laying the foundation for partnerships, future innovation and initiatives o Partnering with ISP providers o Creation of public Broadband spaces o Branding opportunities for economic development o Explore smart city initiatives o Pursue outside funding resources (grants, etc.)

• Residents of Murray County o Increasing Broadband Internet opportunities to the people of Murray County who currently do not have physical access to high speed Internet o Increasing accessibility to residents who have access to Broadband opportunities, but who cannot afford it

Page | 16

Project Goals Murray County Government intends for the Project result to be a significant enhancement to the County. There should be a substantial focus on creating a foundation for a County wide broadband network.

In addition to being the foundation for County wide broadband, the Project must be designed to meet the applicable standards and specifications of known and potential users and stakeholders, using information gathered through the successful Telecommunications Consultant team’s engagement with the User Group.

Project Location The Project will be throughout various thoroughfares and locations in Murray County gleaned through the design process. The successful Telecommunications Consultant will be involved in the network design for this Project.

Project Schedule Murray County Government plans to engage the successful Consultant in

Murray County Government intends for the Project result to be a significant enhancement to the County. There should be a substantial focus on creating a foundation for a County wide broadband network.

In addition to being the foundation for County wide broadband, the Project must be designed to meet the applicable standards and specifications of known and potential users and stakeholders, using information gathered through the successful Telecommunications Consultant team’s engagement with the User Group.

Project Location The Project will be throughout various thoroughfares and locations in Murray County gleaned through the design process. The successful Telecommunications Consultant will be involved in the network design for this Project.

Project Schedule Murray County Government plans to engage the successful Consultant in Q4 2024.

Page | 17

B. DEFINITIONS:

1. MCGov – Murray County Government inclusive of all designated representatives and staff to manage the

Project. The “Owner” on this Project.

2. Evaluation Committee – This Committee shall be composed of qualified persons approved by MCGov to review and evaluate respondent firms’ statements of qualifications and other submittal(s), statements of proposals, and interview qualified finalist firms. The Committee shall be comprised of qualified representatives or stakeholders of MCGov.

3. User Group – A Project User Group is established to provide functional, general design, and operation & maintenance input and guidance to the Project planning and design team professionals in accordance with the intent and descriptions of the Broadband Connectivity Enhancement Project as approved by the IT Director, County Manager, and Sole Commissioner. This Group is generally created to function during the Design Phase but may be utilized during certain components of the construction phase. The Group membership is selected to provide representation of MCGov Staff and community who generally will become responsible for the use, potential operation, and potential maintenance of the final product of the project.

Often the User Group will also include additional principal stakeholders of the Project that may share in the ultimate use of the Project. The operation of the User Group is managed by the IT Director and County Manager who is concurrently charged with the overall management of all Telecommunications Consultant Professionals on behalf of MCGov.

C. SPECIFIC TASKS:

Work shall include, but not be limited to the following:

Telecommunications Consulting Design Professional The qualified and successful respondent shall assist MCGov in the implementing the county’s vision for broadband. The purpose of this engagement is to provide MCGov with the information needed to analyze, select, and implement the best solutions to improve broadband connectivity across our entire county.

MCGov recognizes reaching our goal may require a mix of technologies and phased build-out plans, partnerships with providers, public investment and flexibility, ingenuity, and innovation.

Section A – Current assessment and market demand.

A1. Review of the competitive environment

a. Complete an inventory of existing fiber/wired/wireless networks within the county, including ownership and availability for use by other network providers.

b. Provide an overview of current broadband providers’ services, pricing strategies and coverage area.

c. To the best extent possible, determine and analyze the investment and deployment plans of incumbent providers.

d. Map the location of existing fiber and broadband-related electronics and available broadband speeds by provider. This information should be provided as a GIS layer that can be integrated into the county mapping database.

A2. Conduct a statistically valid survey to determine the public’s knowledge on their internet provider/technology/cost/speed/satisfaction, etc.

A3. Conduct outreach to existing businesses to determine their internet provider/technology/cost/speed and issues. Determine actual broadband speeds delivered to residents and businesses in the county and create a map of broadband speeds and providers as a GIS layer that can be integrated into the county mapping database.

Page | 18

Section B – Technology

B1. Review existing and potential technology for improved and expanded service. Identify and review existing and emerging technology for suitability for Murray County based on need, topography, density, cost, reliability, speed, etc. Evaluation should include technologies available to providers serving Murray County and/or the region.

B2. Develop options and recommendations for deploying suitable cost-effective technology at MCGov facilities and the community at large. Include information on phasing and scaling to 1 gigabit. Options should include scenarios using what already exists within the county, with a minimum service level of, 100Mbps/100Mbps (wire line) 25Mbps/3Mbps wireless.

B3. Conduct pre-engineering study at enough depth to estimate costs (broken down into logical project areas) and approximate implementation time frames for full network implementation of the above recommendations.

Section C – Partnership and Funding Options

C1. Provide examples of who might be a prospective partner with a summary of how each relationship would function.

a. What sectors, groups and individuals may help our county achieve the broadband goals and how could the county engage them to become partners?

b. Please identify synergies and sharing opportunities that exist with providers and customers to include but not limited to: ISP providers, telecoms, cooperatives, statewide telecom networks, government entities, non-governmental organizations, K-12 and higher education, including library systems, healthcare providers and the industry and business community.

C2. Provide examples of where and how the county and providers could leverage additional funds to accomplish the conceptual plans.

a. What information and data should the county be aware of that will assist in applications to other funding sources?

b. What initiatives should the county continue or investigate to remain competitive in attaining state, federal and private funding for future projects?

Section D – American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Grant Program

D1. Develop a grant program for existing providers that will make use of ARPA funds available to the county for the construction and expansion of broadband to serve county residents, buisinesses, and institutions. Key elements of the grant program will include:

ARPA qualified project 100/100 symmetrical speeds Service to unserved and under-served areas Preference for afford ability Preference for reliability Preference for customer service Preference for wire-line fiber Preference for equity participation by provider Preference for leverage of other funds

Page | 19

D2. Assist the county with the review, ranking, and award of grants.

D3. Assist the county with oversight of winning grant projects.

Section E – Development Outline of Municipal Broadband

E1. Develop a conceptual Municipal Broadband network noting access to existing and known proposed MCGov facilities as a backbone to serve MCGov facilities with expandable features

E2. Outline how a Municipal Broadband network can expand to ancillary MCGov facilities to support real time data transmission such as Community Policing cameras, Traffic Signals, variable message boards, etc.

E3. Outline how a Municipal Broadband network can support public community features such as “Broadband or Wi-Fi” areas in the incorporated and unincorporated areas, in parks, or other identified community nodes.

E4. Outline how a Municipal Broadband network can deliver and/or support 3rd party Internet Service Providers (ISP) to deliver broadband service to under served broadband community nodes.

The qualified and successful respondent will be responsible for engaging, directing, and coordinating an exceptional and comprehensive broadband network design and engineering team to work closely with the Broadband Connectivity Project Group and other stakeholders to provide development of plans and specifications and all appropriate peripheral design services necessary for complete, accurate and fully coordinated completion of the Project.

Site/Route Selection The proposed site and routes for the Project has not been identified at this time. The Telecommunications Consultant shall provide the Site Selection Services as further described below.

Site and Route Criteria Analysis

a. The Telecommunications Consultant shall assist MCGov by providing the information described herein to the User Group and MCGov throughout the process. As part of the Program Planning, the Telecommunication Consultant will provide recommendations and assistance to MCCGov in developing the technical criteria for sites for equipment and fiber route selection during the Project.

Public Engagement Murray County Government places a high value on the involvement and engagement of its citizens.

The Design Professional will be key in outlining a robust and comprehensive process for the General Public, IT Director, County Manager and Sole Commissioner that will garner extensive input from the public and lead to the success of the Project for Murray County, Georgia The Public Engagement Plan will encompass both the Site Selection process and project design, utilizing multiple methods to gather input and engage various audiences, targeting messages to a range of audiences to ensure full inclusion. The Telecommunications Consultant will be responsible for providing updates, report data, and presentation material for the Commissioner's Meeting held the first (1st) Tuesday of each month at 9:00 AM. The Telecommunications Consultant shall plan to attend any formal public engagement forums scheduled for the Project and prepare information to be presented during such forum.

Multiple Public Input sessions may be recommended to ensure the public input is significant and aligned with the project development process.

Page | 20

Phasing of Services The services of the Telecommunications Consultant will likely be divided into the phases listed below. In addition, the Design Professional will be expected to participate as a resource to the Project team in the CM/GC selection process.

• Research

• Programming

• Conceptual Design

• Preliminary Design

• Implementation

The Telecommunications Consultant shall attend and prepare the Murray County Government staff for separate formal presentations to the general public, IT Director, CountyManager’s Office, and Commissioner for Project Concept approval, and Schematic Design approval.

Page | 21

SECTION V - SELECTION PROCESS AND EVALUATION CRITERIA

Murray County Government intends to evaluate all Proposals and award a contract after conducting discussions with offerors whose proposals have been determined to be within the competitive range. Each Evaluation Committee member will thoroughly review and evaluate Proposals submitted in response to the RFPQ using the criteria stated herein.

EVALUATION CRITERIA – STEP 1 REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS (RFPQ)

Based on the Proposals format as outlined in Section II, the Evaluation Committee will l evaluate submittal(s) using the following criteria:

a. 10% Factor: Stability and resources of the submitting firm, including the firm’s history, status, growth, overall resources of the firm, form of ownership, litigation history, financial information, and other evidence of stability.

b. 35% Factor: Firm’s relevant experience and qualifications, including the demonstrated ability of the firm in effective Consulting and Design services for Telecommunication projects comparable in complexity, size, and function. This includes relevant experience and qualifications of the principal professionals and lead staff and level of experience in a leadership role over multiple service providers during all phases of design and construction administration, and experience in facilitation of public project meetings.

c. 35% Factor: Firm’s apparent suitability to provide services for project, including the firm’s apparent fit to the program, project type, any unique or special qualifications for the project, suitability for environmentally-sustainable and effective, compliant design, proposed quality control/quality assurance procedures, special or enhanced capabilities, and the firm’s record and methodology of addressing public and private needs for Broadband services and environmental concerns. Also included is the firm’s current and projected workloads (available resources), proximity of office(s) and/or lead staff to project location and/or proven ability to gather resources in location of service.

d. 20% Factor: Past performance evidencing of the submitting firm, including level of quality of services of the firm to previous customers, customer’s statements of that quality, the firm’s ability to meet established time requirements, the firm’s response to project needs during design and construction, the firm’s control of quality and budget.

FINALIST INTERVIEWS

In the Finalist Notification, an interview will be requested of the finalist firms. Each finalist firm shall be notified in writing and informed of the place, date and time for the presentation/interview session and proposal due date.

Detailed presentation/interview instructions and requirements of the finalists will be provided in the Finalist Notification.

FINAL SELECTION AND CONTRACT AWARD

Upon completion of the evaluation and interview process by the Evaluation Committee, a recommendation will be presented to the Sole Commissioner for approval. Upon the Commissioner's approval, negotiations will then be initiated with the best-qualified firm to finalize the terms and conditions of the contract.

Final determination of applicant’s qualification status rest solely with Murray County Government.

Page | 22

SECTION VI – MANDATORY PROPOSAL FORMS

A: PROPOSAL FORM

Proposal of

(Hereinafter called "Offeror"), organized and existing under the laws of the State of

, doing business as *.

In compliance with your RFQP, the Offeror hereby proposes and agrees to perform and furnish all work for the requirement known as TELECOMMUICATION CONSULTING/DESIGN SERVICES-Broadband Community Enhancement Project in strict accordance with the Proposal Documents, within the time set forth therein, and at the price proposed. By submission of this Proposal, the Offeror certifies, and in the case of a joint Offer, each party thereto certifies as to its own organization that:

1. The Offeror has examined and carefully studied the Proposal Documents and the Addenda, receipt of all of which is hereby…